A Sarcina bacterium linked to lethal disease in sanctuary chimpanzees in Sierra Leone
Abstract
Human and animal infections with bacteria of the genusSarcina(familyClostridiaceae) are associated with gastric dilation and emphysematous gastritis. However, the potential roles of sarcinae as commensals or pathogens remain unclear. Here, we investigate a lethal disease of unknown etiology that affects sanctuary chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) in Sierra Leone. The disease, which we have named “epizootic neurologic and gastroenteric syndrome” (ENGS), is characterized by neurologic and gastrointestinal signs and results in death of the animals, even after medical treatment. Using a case-control study design, we show that ENGS is strongly associated withSarcinainfection. The microorganism is distinct fromSarcina ventriculiand other known members of its genus, based on bacterial morphology and growth characteristics. Whole-genome sequencing confirms this distinction and reveals the presence of genetic features that may account for the unusual virulence of the bacterium. Therefore, we propose that this organism be considered the representative of a new species, named “CandidatusSarcina troglodytae”. Our results suggest that a heretofore unrecognized complex of related sarcinae likely exists, some of which may be highly virulent. However, the potential role of “Ca. S. troglodytae” in the etiology of ENGS, alone or in combination with other factors, remains a topic for future research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Feb 03, 2021
- Source ID
- 10.1038/s41467-021-21012-x
Entities
People
- Andrea Pizarro
- Barbara Colitti
- Carles Juan-sallés
- Christopher D. Dunn
- Courtney L. Deblois
- Garret Suen
- Ismail Hirji
- Jenny E. Jaffe
- Jens H. Kuhn
- Kimberly A Bishop-Lilly
- Leah A Owens
- Logan J Voegtly
- Luis A. Estrella
- Sophie Moittié
- Tony L Goldberg
Organizations
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
- United States Department of Defense
- University of Wisconsin–Madison